Halfpenny takes top award

Rob Howley has heaped praise on Leigh Halfpenny after the Wales full-back was named 2013 Six Nations Player of the Championship.

Rob Howley has heaped praise on Leigh Halfpenny after the Wales full-back was named 2013 Six Nations Player of the Championship.

The Cardiff Blues star received more than 40% of the public vote to become the second Welsh player in consecutive years to win the accolade.

Halfpenny finished the Championship as top points scorer and collected two man of the match awards during the campaign and he fully deserved the award according to Wales' interim head coach.

"Leigh is fearless, courageous and is one of the best full backs in World rugby and he can be very proud of his performances throughout the Championship," said Howley.

"He constantly strives for perfection in his preparation and performance and sets high standards. He is a model professional in every facet of the game and I am delighted for him. His contribution to the side has been huge and he fully deserves to be named 6BS 6 Nations Player of the championship.

"He was awarded man of the match out in France and in Italy in two crucial games and has been consistent throughout the championship. It's great to see another Welsh name on the trophy, following up from Dan (Lydiate) last year and it is great to see the players getting the reward they deserve for the effort and performances they produce."

Halfpenny was presented with the trophy in Cardiff this afternoon which concluded a special week for the 24-year-old.

"It's been an unbelievable week," said Halfpenny.

"It can't get any better for me. To top off such an amazing day as Saturday by winning this is huge.

"The atmosphere in the stadium was unbelievable. Singing the anthem is something that I will never forget and the fans were outstanding as they have been home and away during the tournament.

"As players the squad have shown immense character and gained confidence throughout the tournament and against England everything came together and clicked. It was a great performance and the best game I have been involved in. We have amazing fans in Wales and they showed that on the weekend and it's pretty overwhelming that they have backed be and I can't thank them enough."